Evaluating the effectiveness of online English learning during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown as seen from Vietnamese students' perspectives

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand students’ perspective on the EFL online learning model during COVID-19 and its efficacy. The research was conducted using the sequential explanatory mixed method design, through two sources of data: qualitative data collected from interviews with 8 interviewees and quantitative data from a survey with 85 students at FPT University. The findings revealed the major difficulties encountered by the students during EFL online learning which limited the effectiveness of their online learning, as well as their attitudes toward this learning mode and their suggestions/expectations to improve the educational model. The application of the online learning model, which causes some psychological problems for the students, as well as a lack of facilitation for social interaction in EFL learning were the major perceived difficulties. Furthermore, students expected more flexibility by both the teachers and the students in order to enhance the effectiveness of the online learning model. Overall, despite the difficulties encountered by the students, the EFL online learning model was deemed as necessary, and the reception was largely positive. Pedagogical implications are discussed in the research.